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Birman Cats
Fast Facts

Birman cats - known as the Sacred Cats of Burma. These domestic cats probably originated in Burma, now known as the Union of Myanmar, situated in South East Asia. Our page on the history of the Birman is dedicated to the origin of the breed and includes the wonderful legends and myths that surround this magnificent semi-longhaired cat with sapphire blue eyes.

The first cats were shipped to France from Burma in 1919. These cats formed the foundation for the cats in Europe. Sadly after World War II, only two Birman cats remained and in an effort to conserve this cat breed, an extensive outcrossing program was established. 1966 Saw the breed recognized in England and a year later, the Cat Fanciers' Association in America also recognized the cat.

Experts believe that the Birman cat was the first pointed longhaired cat breed. There is mention of another pointed longhair called a Khmer which was brought to France from Indochina in the 1920's. We are unable to find any information regarding this cat and it would appear that it was 'absorbed' into the Persian Colorpoint breed. During the late 1920's, breeders crossed the Siamese cat with the Persian cat and created the Himalayan - also a longhaired pointed cat.

Some people refer to this cat as the Burman (probably referring to Burma) - this spelling is incorrect.

What are the accepted Coat Colors and Patterns?

This is a semi- to longhaired pointed cat. The body color should be even and the shading should be subtle. There should be a definite and strong contrast of color between the points and the body color. The colorpoint includes the tail, face (mask), the ears and the legs, but excludes the paws.

Colors: Solid Point: Blue, Lilac, Chocolate, Red, Cream ; Tortie Point: Seal, Blue, Chocolate and Lilac ; Tabby Point: Blue, Lilac, Chocolate, Red, Cream ; Tortie Tabby: Seal, Blue, Chocolate and Lilac

Gloves: They have white gloves on the front paws and back paws. On the back paws the white can extend up to the hock. All Birmans should have white feet.

What Type of Coats do they have?

Their semi-longhaired coat is silky in texture and has no undercoat. This means that it has a low incidence of matting. A ruff around the neck is preferred and the hair on the flanks is longer. In certain instanced, the fur on the stomach can be slightly curly. The tail fur is long and plush.

Distinguishing Features of the Birman Cat

Body: The body is sturdy, large and fairly long and the muscles are firm and strong. They are heavy, stocky cats and the males are larger than the females. The neck is well muscled, strong and thick. The medium-long tail is carried erect; it is in proportion to the body with long hair. The legs are of medium length, muscular, heavily boned and strong. The paws are round and large.

Head: Birman cats have large, rounded and broad heads. A distinctive Roman-shaped nose, prominent cheeks, firm chin and a well developed muzzle completes the picture. Ears are round-pointed with the base width and height almost equal. Their round eyes are set well apart with the outer corners tilted slightly upwards. Only blue is recognized, preferably deep, vivid blue.

How much do Birman Cats Weigh?	The average weight is 4.5 - 8 kg (9.9 lbs - 17.6 lbs).
What Personality traits do they display?	Birman cats are relaxed, gentle, docile, affectionate lap cats. The Birman breed is not quite as docile as the Persian, so you can expect some activity. They are quiet cats with soft 'bell-like' voices which they use sparingly. It is also known for its intelligence and curiosity. They can be quite playful and love to explore. They love their humans and will follow you around the house just to be near you. They are sociable cats and while they would happily be the 'only pet' they do prefer companionship. They prefer a tranquil environment.
Are they Child Friendly?	Yes, they love children provided they aren't overly boisterous. Children need to be taught how to handle cats - they do not appreciate rough handling.
Are they Animal Friendly?	Yes, they are sociable and appreciate an animal companion - dogs or cats. Owners need to gradually introduce a new pet to the resident cats or dogs and respect the rights of the existing pets.
Indoor or Outdoor? What would suit them best?	Birman cats are by nature gentle and friendly cats which can be dangerous for a cat living outdoors. These cats do adapt well to apartment and indoor living, but they do enjoy exploring outdoors too. Create the ideal environment for your cat - an enclosed, escape-proof garden or an indoor adventure zone filled with toys, non-toxic plants, cat gyms and scratching posts.
Cat Care and Grooming	Birman cats are medium maintenance cat breeds. They are easier to groom than other semi-or longhaired cats as they have no undercoat and are not prone to matting. They are prone to hairballs, so they do need weekly grooming. Visit our grooming pages for complete cat care.
Cat Health Concerns *	Generally this is a healthy breed, but as with all pure breeds, does have some health issues. Not every cat suffers from one or any of the diseases mentioned below, but some lines may be prone to these health problems: Azotaemia (a kidney problem); Distal axonopathy (neurological problem), Encephalomyelopathy (disease of the brain and spinal cord), Feline infectious peritonitis, Renal calculi (kidney stone), Thrombo embolism (blood clots) Do consider cat insurance for your cat.
Special Dietary Requirements	Birman cats are prone to obesity and hairballs. There are special commercial diets that can assist in reducing hairballs and controlling weight. It is important to keep your cat hydrated. Fresh, clean water should always be available to your cat.
What is this cat's life expectancy?	A cat living indoors that receives annual vaccinations, a well balanced diet and exercise, is expected to have an average life span of 15+ years.

* Before purchasing a cat, always do thorough research into the bloodlines and genetics of your cat and always buy from reputable cat breeders.

birman cat breed, birman cat

For additional Cat information on domestic cats please visit, choosing a cat breed and take a look at our list of cat names for boy and girl cat names.

Cat Photos - beautiful cat pictures

Birman - profile, history and origin

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Return from Birman Cats to Cat Breeds Home Page

Pictures of Cats Courtesy of:

Top:Sp Pr Timshay Corelli, Seal Point Birman Owner: Shirley Wynne

Bottom: Nooitgedacht Engeltje, Blue Point Birman: Breeder and Owner: Sandy Gunst of Nooitgedacht Birmans